Tourist Health And Safety Guide For Swaziland

Swaziland has the full complement of tropical diseases that a traveller must guard against. Malaria, cholera, typhoid, rabies, bilharzias, HIV et al. Consult a GP before leaving for Swaziland and take the necessary preventive treatment. Medical insurance is advised even though Swaziland has six government run hospitals in the main urban centres, as well as health centres and small clinics that provide low cost treatment. Foreign nationals prefer the services of private clinics and doctors on the panel of major hotels, but they can cost a goodly amount. Patients are often flown to South Africa for specialized treatment.

In any African country, safety is always a primary issue. While in Swaziland, avoid travelling alone or in small groups to the more remote areas of the country. Personal effects must be well looked after as petty theft and muggings are common in Swaziland. Avoid walking alone or after dark in the downtown districts of Manzini and Mbabane. While driving around the country, do not give lifts or stop midway as carjackings occur with alarming frequency, particularly on the highway connecting Mbabane to Maputo (Mozambique). Use commonsense and exercise the same caution and judgement as in any other strange place. Always clear the current safety status with your embassy and do abide by the rules.